Cardinal Tagle Reflects on Pope Leo XIV and the Papal Conclave Experience
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle recently opened up about his experience during the papal conclave and shared his thoughts on Pope Leo XIV and the late Pope Francis. In a detailed interview with Vatican sources, the Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization recounted moments from the conclave and reflected on the legacy left by his predecessor.
He emphasized the significance of the conclave as a spiritual event, describing it as a sacred time for prayer, reflection, and listening to God’s will. He remarked that the conclave is not just a political gathering but a liturgical occasion where cardinals seek divine guidance to choose the next Vicar of Christ.
Close Encounters with the New Pope
During the conclave held in the Sistine Chapel, Cardinal Tagle sat beside Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost. A week after Pope Leo XIV’s election, the two cardinals met again in a private audience, further highlighting the close-knit nature of this historic moment.
Regarding the new pope, Cardinal Tagle said, “I first met Pope Leo XIV in Manila and Rome when he was still the Prior General of the Order of St. Augustine. We worked together in the Roman Curia starting in 2023. He listens deeply and patiently, studying carefully before making decisions. The Pope shares his views without imposing them. He is intellectually and culturally well-prepared, yet humble. His calm warmth comes from prayer and his missionary experience.”
Insights on the Papal Conclave
Reflecting on his experience in two conclaves, including the recent one, Tagle spoke about the atmosphere and spiritual gravity surrounding these events. “Before any major global event, there’s always speculation and analysis. The conclave is no different. In 2013, Pope Benedict XVI was still alive, but by 2025, Pope Francis had passed on. Each conclave is unique, yet some traditions remain constant,” he explained.
He recalled initially wondering about the formal attire required for the conclave, only to understand that it is a liturgical event focused on prayer and worship. “Both Pope Francis and Pope Leo were elected on the second day. This shows that communion of minds and hearts is possible when we worship the true God,” he added.
Cardinal Prevost’s Reaction
Tagle described Cardinal Prevost’s emotional response when the two-thirds majority vote was reached. “His reaction shifted between smiling and deep breathing. It was a mix of holy resignation and reverence. I silently prayed for him. When he got the required votes, a loud applause filled the room, much like during Pope Francis’s election. It was a joyful yet intimate moment between Jesus and him, which we respected in silence.”
The Unique Face of Pope Leo XIV
As an Asian, Cardinal Tagle appreciates the new American-Peruvian pope’s diverse cultural background. “While grace is central to Pope Leo’s ministry, his human, cultural, religious, and missionary experiences give him a unique face. Every pope brings his own humanity to the Petrine ministry, and Pope Leo’s multi-continental background will surely benefit the Church.”
He also noted the widespread affection for the pope in Asia, not only among Catholics but also other Christian communities and followers of different religions.
Reflections on Being a Papabile
Tagle, considered a potential pope himself, acknowledged the challenges that come with such attention. “I don’t enjoy the spotlight, so it was unsettling. I drew strength from spiritual reflection, especially on the responsibility cardinals carry during the conclave to act with right intention for the universal Church.”
Remembering Pope Francis’ Legacy
As the one-month anniversary of Pope Francis’s passing approached, Cardinal Tagle reflected on his enduring impact. “I am heartened by the many testimonies from Catholics, other Christian communities, and non-Christian religions about Pope Francis’s teachings and legacy. I hope these grow to deepen our understanding of him and the Petrine ministry.”
He highlighted Pope Francis’s gift for humanity and authentic kindness. “He showed us the beauty of being truly human, not for his own glory but for God’s greater glory, who became fully human through Jesus.”
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